Publications

Instrumental Music Education

Instrumental Music Education: Teaching with the Musical and Practical in Harmony is intended for college instrumental music education majors studying to be band and orchestra directors at the elementary, middle school, or high school level. This textbook presents an extensive look at the topics most vital to running a successful instrumental music program, balancing musical, theoretical, and practical approaches. A central theme is the compelling parallel between language and music, including “sound-to-symbol” pedagogies. Understanding this connection improves the teaching of melody, rhythm, composition, and improvisation.

An enclosed CD contains over 50 tracks of acoustically pure drones and demonstration exercises for use in rehearsals, sectionals and lessons.

The companion website, available January 2011, includes over 120 pedagogy videos for wind, string, and percussion instruments, performed by professional players and teachers, over 50 rehearsal videos, rhythm flashcards, intonation software, and two additional chapters, “The Rehearsal Tookit,” and “The Job Search.”

Fundamentals of Rehearsing Music Ensembles

Now available on-demand through Coursera.org, this MOOC (massive open online course) is the first its kind to those wishing to become a better conductor, teacher, and performer. It presents practical approaches for improving diagnostic and interpretative skills and provides a basic understanding of which rehearsal tools to put into practice in a variety of situations. The course also includes an overview of key topics such as: repertoire selection, score study, the grammar of conducting, and rehearsal planning. Access the course here.